There are stories about messy rooms and upcoming deadlines.There are stories about my laptop and how my world revolves around it.There are stories about red satin bed spreads with threads of gold.There are stories about suspenders on my floor, a gag gift from my dad.There are stories about the bamboo and how it has grown since moving away.There are stories about the cat; sometimes the only one to come home to.There are stories about having no groceries, only takeout boxes.There are stories about my memory shoe box containing pictures and keepsakes.There are stories about making Toronto my home.
There are stories about used condoms on city side walks.There are stories about gracious hookers and homeless people.There are stories about playgrounds and screaming children accompanied by their parents.There are stories about walking and checking the time on parking meters.There are stories about angry, socially conscious graffiti.There are stories about smoke stacks and city breathing.There are stories about hilarious posters at neighbourhood laundry mats.There are stories about melting cities and forming puddles.
There are stories about clothing hanging from tree branches.There are stories about the musty smell of antique book shops.There are stories about the homeless man’s one and only sanctuary.There are stories about creeping vines that are there all year round.There are stories about Subway rides with perfect strangers.There are stories about reading books and listening to music.There are stories about making York my home.There are stories about waiting between classes at cafeteria tables.There are stories about big, big water bottles because I’m so thirsty- all the time. There are stories about show posters and wanting to have my own one day.There are stories about drinking with friends after a day immersed in laughter.There are stories about cigarettes and passionate conversations.
There are stories about colouring pictures like when we were kids.There are stories about pale skin, dark hair: me.
Susan Stover

Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| York University
February 20-27, 2007

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